Echocardiography Preparation Guide
Everything you need to know before your echocardiogram appointment. Usually no preparation needed — quick, painless, and non-invasive.
Preparation Checklist
Simple steps to follow before your echocardiography appointment.
Usually No Preparation Needed
Most echocardiograms do not require any special preparation. You can eat, drink, and take medications as normal unless specifically advised otherwise.
Continue Medications
Please continue taking your regular medications as prescribed unless your doctor has specifically asked you to stop before the test.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to your chest area. You may be asked to change into a gown for the examination.
Arrive 10–15 Minutes Early
Please arrive before your scheduled appointment time to complete registration and allow time for pre-test preparation without delays.
Please Bring With You
- Doctor referral letter
- Medicare card
- Previous cardiac reports or ECGs
- Full medication list
Types of Echocardiography
Different echo studies may be performed depending on your clinical referral. Each may have specific preparation requirements.
Transthoracic Echo (TTE)
The most common type. A probe is moved gently over the chest wall to create images of the heart. No special preparation is required.
No preparation neededStress Echocardiogram
Heart images are taken before and after exercise or medication-induced stress to assess how the heart responds under exertion.
Additional prep requiredTransoesophageal Echo (TOE)
A probe is passed into the oesophagus via the mouth to obtain detailed images of the heart from behind. Fasting is required beforehand.
Fasting requiredDoppler Echocardiogram
Uses sound waves to measure blood flow speed and direction through the heart and valves, often performed as part of a standard TTE.
No preparation neededContrast Echocardiogram
A contrast agent is injected to improve the clarity of heart images. Preparation instructions will be provided when your appointment is booked.
Specific prep appliesSpecialised Heart Studies
If you have been referred for a specialised cardiac study, additional preparation instructions will be confirmed with you at the time of booking.
Confirm when bookingWhat to Expect
A simple overview of what happens during your echocardiography appointment.
Arrival & Check-In
Our receptionist will check you in and confirm your details. Please have your referral, Medicare card, and medication list ready on arrival.
Preparation
You will be taken to a private room and asked to undress from the waist up. Small electrode stickers will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm during the test.
The Echocardiogram
A sonographer will apply warm gel to your chest and move a small probe gently over the area. You may be asked to change position or hold your breath briefly. The test takes approximately 30–45 minutes and is completely painless.
Results & Next Steps
A detailed cardiac report is prepared by our specialist and forwarded to your referring doctor. Please follow up with your doctor to discuss the findings and any recommended next steps.
Important Information
Key details to be aware of before your echocardiography appointment.
What is Echocardiography?
An echocardiogram uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to create detailed moving images of the heart, valves, chambers, and blood flow — safely and without radiation.
Safe & Painless
The test is entirely non-invasive, uses no radiation, and is safe for all patients including those who are pregnant. There are no injections involved for a standard echo.
Stress Echo & Special Studies
If your referral is for a stress echocardiogram or a specialised cardiac study, additional preparation instructions will apply. Our team will confirm these with you when booking.
Your Results
Results are not provided on the day. A full report is prepared by our cardiologist or specialist and sent directly to your referring doctor for discussion at your follow-up appointment.
Please contact us before your appointment
If any of the following situations apply to you, please get in touch with our team in advance so we can provide the best possible care.
Please let us know if
- You are unsure of your preparation instructions
- You have been referred for a stress echo or TOE
- You need mobility assistance or have accessibility requirements
- You require an interpreter for your appointment
- You need to reschedule your appointment
Have a question or need to get in touch?
Our friendly team is available to assist you before, during, and after your appointment. Don't hesitate to reach out — we're here to help.
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